Both Google and Amazon have extensive links to the US government and military.

“Alexa, tell me who Thomas Payne was…”

“Thomas Payne was a rabble rouser and rebel scum. Why would you want to know about him? Your query has been relayed to NSA headquarters. The current temperature is 33 degrees…”

“Thanks Alexa.”

“Shall I send your gun registration number also while I’m at it?”

“Sure, Alexa. Why not?

(From Consumer Watchdog.org)

Internet giants Amazon and Google are slashing prices and offering supposed deals on their “digital assistants” this holiday season, but a study of patent applications associated with the devices reveals plans for massive surveillance of users’ homes, Consumer Watchdog warned today.

Consumer Watchdog said that a study of patent applications filed by Amazon and Google with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office reveals a vision for an Orwellian future in which digital assistants eavesdrop on everything from confidential conversations to your toilet flushing habits to children’s movements and the books on bedside tables. They would know when you go to sleep and whom you wake up with.

The patents reveal the devices’ possible use as surveillance equipment for massive information collection and intrusive digital advertising.